Bethel security officers work to improve safety of students

April 4, 2014 | 11 a.m.

News | Amanda Soderlund for The Clarion

Student security officer Kyle Lecy mentioned that often, peoples' security is dependent upon the efficiency of the security officers. Over the course of 2013, 11,000 security events were logged.| Photo for The Clarion by Greta Sowles

Their Priuses are perhaps the most recognizable vehicles on campus, but how much do we really know about Bethel Security? What does it take to become an officer for BU security? What sort of situations are our officers placed in everyday? Andrew Luchsinger is the chief of secrity, and he had plenty of insight in terms of what goes into the operations that keep our campus safe.

“Upon getting a job for campus security, a candidate must successfully pass two weeks of training and two weeks with a field training officer,” Luchsinger explained. Training is a rigorous process that includes classroom instruction on conflict communication and patrol procedures, and at least 30 hours in the field with a senior-ranking student officer.

When asked if there is danger on a friendly campus such as Bethel, Lochsinger said, “There certainly are risks and we continually pray for our officers' safety.” Over the course of 2013, more than 11,000 events were logged, including: 69 medical emergencies, 2,109 escorts and 55 reports of suspicious activity.

“Typically, officers respond in pairs to any report or situation that may endanger them,” Lchsinger said.

This is especially the case when it’s unknown if a suspicious person is carrying a weapon, and what their intent is. Other events of risk include contracting blood-born pathogens during medical responses and emergency evacuations. One such case happened at Heritage in the summer, where a tree fell and broke a main gas line and officers helped evacuate the building.

If you are in need of help, do you call 9-1-1 or campus security? “A person can always call us, but if a person has called 9-1-1 they need to call us second” Luchsinger explains . It is Security’s job to help escort local authorities and assist with any response.Campus Security's line of work goes beyond what the average student sees. Bethel students can be assured knowing they’re under the care of those who are well trained to respond to any type of situation.